The Young Pioneers

When Adam called Molly to tell her that the (YOUNG) PIONEERS were deciding to disband in February 1999, she told him that she was sad, but she knew someone who would be even sadder. He said, “I know, I don’t even want to tell her.” They were talking about me, the most massive (YOUNG) PIONEERS fan within or without the Lookout! base of operations. The (YOUNG) PIONEERS had just come to town on what was to be their final tour with THE LOCUST and I made it to four of their five Northern California shows: SF, Mission Records in-store, Gilman Street, even Chico. I can’t explain exactly why I love the (YOUNG) PIONEERS so much. I guess it’s because their music has the perfect blend of emotion and intellectualism for me. They are powerful but not straightforward, clever but not pretentious, sincere but unpredictable. Their unique song structure is driving and authoritative, and their lyrics are always difficult to unpack. Vocalist and lyricist Adam (formerly of BORN AGAINST) is so well versed in the language of politics that he is equally capable of writing a political song and a parody of one, and he often leaves his audience guessing as to what his true meaning is. Bass player Marty Violence is one of the most charismatic and hilarious performers ever. Although he estimates he spends about an hour each day patiently answering questions about his hair, I’m sure he’ll find time to form an exciting new band soon. Drummer Fred is a big part of what pushed the (YOUNG) PIONEERS to the level they achieved with their brilliant last release. It’s been hard for me to accept that there won’t be any more records from these Richmond boys, but after both Jesse Luscious and me attempted misguided “interventions,” in which we basically called them up and begged them to stay together, I had to accept that the (YOUNG) PIONEERS were really, truly, calling it quits. After making the most amazing record of their careers, it was all over. Oh well, I have no doubt that time will prove me right about this amazing, underrated band, and that future generations of punk sweethearts will serenade each other with “We ain’t even married.”—Tristin Laughter